Residential architects are seeing continued growth in homeowner demand for flexible, adaptable accommodations
AIA's Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2026 asked architects about trends in special-function rooms, home features, home systems and technology, and products.
WASHINGTON – September 21, 2026 – The American Institute of Architects’ (AIA) Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2026 asked architects about trends in special-function rooms, home features, home systems and technology, and products.
Every quarter, hundreds of architecture firms share current project data to reveal new and emerging trends in residential design, offering an incisive look at the key features homeowners and buyers want. Each quarter, the focus of the AIA Home Design Trends Survey changes: Q1, “Home and Property Design”; Q2, “Home Features”; Q3, “Neighborhood and Community Design”; and Q4, “Kitchen and Bath.”
The AIA Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2026 shows that homeowner interest is centered on maximizing space while maintaining flexibility, consistent with universal design principles. Other survey highlights include:
- Outdoor living spaces, in-law suites, and additional multi-function rooms led the demand for special functions rooms. While demand for most special function increased slightly, the demand for outdoor living spaces jump by 10% from 2025 – indicating homeowners desire to spend time outside, while in the comfort of their home.
- Accommodation for multiple generations, first-floor primary suites, and wider doorways topped the special features portion of the AIA Home Design Trends Survey. This indicates homeowners are investing in their homes with the intention of aging in place.
- Electric car docking stations continue to increase in popularity, along with technology-friendly systems throughout the home.
- Similar to the billing activity on the nonresidential side, residential project billings, inquiries and design contracts have been on a downward trajectory since 2022.
- Despite the overall slowdown in billing activity, residential firms in the Northeast, Midwest and South saw modest growth in billing activity in the second quarter However, this was offset by a steep decline at firms located in the West.
View the entire AIA Home Design Trends Survey for the third quarter of 2026.
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